San Francisco: Shopping

Amoeba Music Amoeba is an independent music store that buys, sells, and trades a huge, constantly-changing, selection of artists. This place rocks, literally, with live in-store performances, too. Haight-Ashbury; 1855 Haight St.; 415-831-1200; www.amoeba.com
family | music | novelty | specialty

Ferry Building Marketplace Located within the historic Ferry Building at the foot of Market Street, visitors can find everything from artisan cheese shops and florists to fine cafes and restaurants. Embarcadero; 1 Ferry; 415-693-0996; www.ferrybuildingmarketplace.com
family | restaurants | produce | editor pick

Ferry Plaza Farmer's Market Hordes of locals flock to the Ferry Building every Tuesday (10am to 2 pm) and Saturday mornings (8 am to 2 pm) for the ever-popular, year-round market. Aside from farmers selling fresh breads, cheeses, meats, and produce, you’ll also find a healthy supply of artisans on hand to market their goods. Embarcadero; 1 Ferry Bldg.; 415-291-3276; www.cuesa.org
family | market

Metreon More than a just mall, this 350,000 square-foot entertainment complex has great restaurants, familiar and unique stores, theatres, and the West Coast's largest IMAX theatre. South of Market/Yerba Buena; 101 Fourth St.; 415-369-6000; www.metreon.com
culinary | entertainment | cinema | mall

Tampico You wouldn’t know it from their website, but Tampico is a top destination for antique or vintage jewelry. Their sales staff is known for their attention to detail, knowledge and assistance. Pacific Heights; 2147 Union St.; 415-563-3785; www.tampico.us
smart splurge | jewelry | antiques | specialty

Union Square Flagship locations for Macy’s, Levi’s and The Disney Store are just the beginning. Cross the great square and find high-end boutiques mingling with discount shops on every side street. Union Square; www.unionsquareshop.com
boutique | souvenirs | designer | clothing | department store

Union Street Shops Located on Union Street between Gough and Steiner, this area feels like an old-fashioned shopping area but with a modern ritzy twist. Think up-and-coming designer boutiques and high-end chains like Bebe. Pacific Heights; www.unionstreet.com
boutique | expensive | designer